Top 10 Italian Coastal Cities

There are many coastal cities found throughout Italy, each with its unique set of history, cuisine and of course breathtaking views. If only I had the time, and money, to travel to each and every one!

Italy’s lucky islands are located in the Mediterranean climate zone, meaning the weather is almost always perfect. But it’s not just the crisp blue skies that make these cities unlike anywhere else. For starters there are the staggering cliffs dotted in colored houses and waters so bright blue they appear altered by magic.

Pictured above is the gorgeous island of Capri, where a world of wondrous activities, delicious meals, and fun adventures await. Keep reading to discover more splendid images of the island Capri, plus 9 other top coastal cities you can visit along Italy’s coastline.

1. Capri

This coastal city is really an island. A beautiful and historical destination where everyday travelers and celebrities alike come to enjoy the amazing sights, culture, and of course, food! At only a little over 4 square miles in size, this island is packed tight with wonders galore.

2. Polignano a Mare

This fishing village is located in southern Italy on the Adriatic Sea. Here, fishing, agriculture, and tourists fuel the local economy. Evidence of prehistoric civilizations have been discovered by archaeologists, proving people have called this village home for many years.

Polignano a Mare is also known for its incredible cave restaurant, Grotta Palazzese.

3. Sardinia

Sardinia Island is the second largest stretch of island located in the Mediterranean Sea. The long coastal line provides plenty of access to white sandy beaches, as well a plethora of activities like horseback riding and sailing. In the winter you can even ski.

4. Positano

This Italian village is located on the Amalfi Coast, the entire town is mostly built into an enclave in the hills, perched just above the coast.

5. Manarola

This Italian village might be small but it is one of the most famous found throughout Italy. Manarola is located on the Italian Riviera, and I must admit there is a very romantic feel to this beachside retreat.

6. Camogli

2-hours from Milan, Camogli sits on the Italian Riviera. Foreign tourists don’t come here all that often, as the city is considered more of a local treasure. With plenty of pretty colored houses, hiking trails, and a beautiful beach, this place sounds like a true paradise.

7. Capo Vaticano

Surrounded by the Tyrrhenian Sea and its warm clear waters, Capo Vaticano is a well known bathing spot located in Calabria, Italy. The geological characteristics of the cape surrounding the popular bathing spot is widely speculated about as it contains a unique white-granite.

8. Levanzo

The smallest of the three central Aegadian Islands, Levanzo is located to the west of Sicily, Italy. With nearly 6 miles of space, there is a lot to explore here, including ancient cave paintings left behind long ago.

9. Scilla

You will find Scilla right at the tip of the Italian boot. This historic fishing village offers some amazing sights, and delicious entrees! Have you ever heard of the sea monster named Scylla, found in Greek mythology? Scilla is the mystical site of the creature’s origin.

10. Otranto

You will find Otranto on the east coast of the Salento peninsula. This town is nearly 30 square miles with so many scenic sights to take in. For any horse lovers out there, Ortranto was once famous for a particular breed of horses. Like all of the italian coastal cities, history–and natural beauty–can be found everywhere you look.